Cape Coast, Ghana – Three days after the Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly embarked on a city-wide decongestion operation at Kotokuraba and Abura Markets, the area remains relatively calm and orderly. Led by Hon. George Justice Arthur, Metropolitan Chief Executive, the exercise aimed to restore sanity to the city's busiest trading centers.
As a reporter for Coastal Television, I returned to both markets to observe the situation and gather feedback from residents, traders, and pedestrians.
Walking through the Kotokuraba Market earlier today, I observed free walkways, reduced vehicular congestion, and a noticeable improvement in sanitation. The usual overcrowding at the entrances has significantly reduced, allowing customers to move in and out without obstruction.
At the Abura Market, the story is similar. Traders who once occupied sidewalks and streets have now been relocated to inside stalls or designated trading spaces.
I spoke with several individuals on the ground, and the feedback has remained largely positive.
Esi Kutuma, a trader at Kotokuraba: The place is cleaner. Although we're not safe on the roadside, we will manage the situation.
Kwame Dankwa, a taxi driver at Abura: “Traffic has reduced. Before, we would spend too much time stuck, but now movement is smooth. This is good for business.”
Efua Buckman, a vendor: “The environment feels safer now. We just hope they keep it this way.”
Habeeba Lewis, a trader at Abura: In fact, i am OK with where i am now.
Despite the success, a few traders have raised concerns about overcrowding in the available stalls and are calling for better coordination and additional space. A few street vendors were also seen attempting to return to their old spots during off-peak hours.
When contacted, the MCE, Hon. George Justice Arthur told Coastal TV that the Assembly is actively monitoring the situation.
As it stands, the decongestion exercise appears to be yielding positive results across Kotokuraba and Abura. The cooperation of stakeholders and ongoing efforts by the assembly will be critical in sustaining the progress.
Credit: Asorba Kofi Essuman, Coastal TV
